What is Bone Cancer?
Bone cancer is a relatively rare type of sarcoma that starts in the bone. Bone cancer develops when cells in the bones begin to grow rapidly and uncontrollably. The human skeletal system is made up of many bones that give support, structure and protection to the body. Bones have a hollow center that is filled with bone marrow, the soft, spongy tissue where blood cells are produced. The hard, outer part of the bone is called the matrix or cortex. Bones are connected to other bones by ligaments, which are bands of threadlike, fibrous tissue. Bones also contain cartilage, which is a tough, flexible covering that protects the joints and the ends of bones. There are two main types of cells in bone: osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Osteoclasts help break down areas of old, weakened bone matrix and osteoblasts help to rebuild these areas by laying down new bone.
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Types of Bone Cancer
There are several different types of bone cancer, classified according to the areas of bone and the types of cells involved: Rarely these cancers can arise outside of the bone.
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Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer. Osteosarcoma usually arises from the osteoblasts, the cells that help rebuild areas of weakened bone. It most often occurs in the knees, upper arms or pelvis. This type of bone cancer occurs primarily in children and adolescents, but also affects adults.
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Ewing's Sarcoma
Ewing's Sarcoma is a type of bone cancer that usually develops in the bones, but may also involve other soft tissues and organs. Ewing's sarcoma occurs most often in children and adolescents, but also affects adults. It most commonly occurs in the backbone, pelvis, chest wall, legs and arms.
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Chondrosarcoma
Chondrosarcoma is cancer of the cartilage tissue and is the most common type of primary bone cancer in adults. Chondrosarcomas may develop in cartilage in any part of the body, but most commonly arises in the hip bones, upper legs and shoulders.
